Mobile terminal and screen displaying method thereof

ABSTRACT

A mobile terminal and screen displaying method thereof are disclosed, by which an image can be displayed on a screen using a virtual polyhedral pillar. The present invention includes a user input unit for inputting key signals, a display for displaying a first facet of a polyhedral pillar, and a controller, if a specific key signal is inputted, the controller controlling a second facet of the polyhedral pillar to be displayed on the display by rotating the polyhedral pillar.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of the Korean Patent ApplicationNos. 10-2007-0038632, filed on Apr. 20, 2007, 10-2007-0038701 filed onApr. 20, 2007 and 10-2007-0038631 filed on Apr. 20, 2007, which arehereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a mobile terminal, and moreparticularly, to a mobile terminal and screen displaying method thereof.

2. Discussion of the Related Art

A mobile terminal is a device which may be configured to perform variousfunctions. Examples of such functions include data and voicecommunications, capturing images and video via a camera, recordingaudio, playing music files via a speaker system, and displaying imagesand video on a display. Some terminals include additional functionalitywhich supports game playing, while other terminals are configured asmultimedia players. More recently, mobile terminals have been configuredto receive broadcast and multicast signals which permit viewing ofcontent such as videos and television programs.

Efforts are ongoing to support and increase the functionality of mobileterminals. Such efforts include software and hardware improvements, aswell as changes and improvements in the structural components which formthe mobile terminal.

Recently, many efforts have been made to develop and research a screendisplay of a mobile terminal in pursuit of a function for user'sconvenience and attraction.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a mobile terminal andscreen displaying method thereof that substantially obviate one or moreproblems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.

An object of the present invention is to provide a mobile terminal andscreen displaying method thereof, by which an image can be displayed ona screen using a virtual polyhedral pillar.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile terminaland screen displaying method thereof, by which an image displayed on ascreen can be transposed using a rotation of a virtual polyhedralpillar.

Additional advantages, objects, and features of the invention will beset forth in part in the description which follows and in part willbecome apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following or may be learned from practice of theinvention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention may berealized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in thewritten description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

To achieve these objects and other advantages and in accordance with thepurpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, amobile terminal according to the present invention includes a user inputunit for inputting key signals, a display for displaying a first facetof a polyhedral pillar, and a controller, if a specific key signal isinputted, the controller controlling a second facet of the polyhedralpillar to be displayed on the display by rotating the polyhedral pillar.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method of displaying ascreen in a mobile terminal according to the present invention includesdisplaying a first facet of a polyhedral pillar and displaying a secondface of the polyhedral pillar by rotating the polyhedral pillar.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description of the present invention areexemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide furtherexplanation of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of the presentinvention will become more apparent upon consideration of the followingdescription of preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawing figures.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a mobile terminal in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a front side of a mobile terminalaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a front diagram of a mobile terminal according to anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 5 to 10 are diagrams for a screen displaying method of a mobileterminal according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart for a method of displaying a menu in a mobileterminal according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are diagrams for a process for displaying a menuaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a process for setting a background image in amobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention;and

FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a process for setting a backgroundimage in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawing figures which form a part hereof, and which show byway of illustration specific embodiments of the invention. It is to beunderstood by those of ordinary skill in this technological field thatother embodiments may be utilized, and structural, electrical, as wellas procedural changes may be made without departing from the scope ofthe present invention. Wherever possible, the same reference numberswill be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similarparts.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of mobile terminal 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. The mobile terminal may beimplemented using a variety of different types of terminals. Examples ofsuch terminals include mobile phones, user equipment, smart phones,computers, digital broadcast terminals personal digital assistants,portable multimedia players (PMP) and navigators. By way of non-limitingexample only, further description will be with regard to a mobileterminal. However, such teachings apply equally to other types ofterminals. FIG. 1 shows the mobile terminal 100 having variouscomponents, but it is understood that implementing all of theillustrated components is not a requirement. Greater or fewer componentsmay alternatively be implemented.

FIG. 1 shows a wireless communication unit 110 configured with severalcommonly implemented components. For instance, the wirelesscommunication unit 110 typically includes one or more components whichpermits wireless communication between the mobile terminal 100 and awireless communication system or network within which the mobileterminal is located.

The broadcast receiving module 111 receives a broadcast signal and/orbroadcast associated information from an external broadcast managingentity via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include asatellite channel and a terrestrial channel. The broadcast managingentity refers generally to a system which transmits a broadcast signaland/or broadcast associated information. Examples of broadcastassociated information include information associated with a broadcastchannel, a broadcast program, a broadcast service provider, etc. Forinstance, broadcast associated information may include an electronicprogram guide (EPG) of digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) andelectronic service guide (ESG) of digital video broadcast-handheld(DVB-H).

The broadcast signal may be implemented as a TV broadcast signal, aradio broadcast signal, and a data broadcast signal, among others. Ifdesired, the broadcast signal may further include a broadcast signalcombined with a TV or radio broadcast signal.

The broadcast receiving module 111 may be configured to receivebroadcast signals transmitted from various types of broadcast systems.By nonlimiting example, such broadcasting systems include digitalmultimedia broadcasting-terrestrial (DMB-T), digital multimediabroadcasting-satellite (DMB-S), digital video broadcast-handheld(DVB-H), the data broadcasting system known as media forward link only(MediaFLO®) and integrated services digital broadcast-terrestrial(ISDB-T). Receiving of multicast signals is also possible. If desired,data received by the broadcast receiving module 111 may be stored in asuitable device, such as memory 160.

The mobile communication module 112 transmits/receives wireless signalsto/from one or more network entities (e.g., base station, Node-B). Suchsignals may represent audio, video, multimedia, control signaling, anddata, among others.

The wireless internet module 113 supports Internet access for the mobileterminal. This module may be internally or externally coupled to theterminal.

The short-range communication module 114 facilitates relativelyshort-range communications. Suitable technologies for implementing thismodule include radio frequency identification (RFID), infrared dataassociation (IrDA), ultra-wideband (UWB), as well at the networkingtechnologies commonly referred to as Bluetooth and ZigBee, to name afew.

Position-location module 115 identifies or otherwise obtains thelocation of the mobile terminal. If desired, this module may beimplemented using global positioning system (GPS) components whichcooperate with associated satellites, network components, andcombinations thereof.

Audio/video (A/V) input unit 120 is configured to provide audio or videosignal input to the mobile terminal. As shown, the A/V input unit 120includes a camera 121 and a microphone 122. The camera receives andprocesses image frames of still pictures or video.

The microphone 122 receives an external audio signal while the portabledevice is in a particular mode, such as phone call mode, recording modeand voice recognition. This audio signal is processed and converted intodigital data. The portable device, and in particular, A/V input unit120, typically includes assorted noise removing algorithms to removenoise generated in the course of receiving the external audio signal.Data generated by the A/V input unit 120 may be stored in memory 160,utilized by output unit 150, or transmitted via one or more modules ofcommunication unit 110. If desired, two or more microphones and/orcameras may be used.

The user input unit 130 generates input data responsive to usermanipulation of an associated input device or devices. Examples of suchdevices include a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (e.g., staticpressure/capacitance), a jog wheel and a jog switch. A specific exampleis one in which the user input unit 130 is configured as a touchpad incooperation with a touchscreen display (which will be described in moredetail below).

The sensing unit 140 provides status measurements of various aspects ofthe mobile terminal. For instance, the sensing unit may detect anopen/close status of the mobile terminal, relative positioning ofcomponents (e.g., a display and keypad) of the mobile terminal, a changeof position of the mobile terminal or a component of the mobileterminal, a presence or absence of user contact with the mobileterminal, orientation or acceleration/deceleration of the mobileterminal. As an example, consider the mobile terminal 100 beingconfigured as a slide-type mobile terminal. In this configuration, thesensing unit 140 may sense whether a sliding portion of the mobileterminal is open or closed. Other examples include the sensing unit 140sensing the presence or absence of power provided by the power supply190, the presence or absence of a coupling or other connection betweenthe interface unit 170 and an external device.

The interface unit 170 is often implemented to couple the mobileterminal with external devices. Typical external devices includewired/wireless headphones, external chargers, power supplies, storagedevices configured to store data (e.g., audio, video, pictures, etc.),earphones, and microphones, among others. The interface unit 170 may beconfigured using a wired/wireless data port, a card socket (e.g., forcoupling to a memory card, subscriber identity module (SIM) card, useridentity module (UIM) card, removable user identity module (RUIM) card),audio input/output ports and video input/output ports.

The output unit 150 generally includes various components which supportthe output requirements of the mobile terminal. Display 151 is typicallyimplemented to visually display information associated with the mobileterminal 100. For instance, if the mobile terminal is operating in aphone call mode, the display will generally provide a user interface orgraphical user interface which includes information associated withplacing, conducting, and terminating a phone call. As another example,if the mobile terminal 100 is in a video call mode or a photographingmode, the display 151 may additionally or alternatively display imageswhich are associated with these modes.

One particular implementation includes the display 151 configured as atouch screen working in cooperation with an input device, such as atouchpad. This configuration permits the display to function both as anoutput device and an input device.

The display 151 may be implemented using known display technologiesincluding, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin filmtransistor-liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD), an organic light-emittingdiode display (OLED), a flexible display and a three-dimensionaldisplay. The mobile terminal may include one or more of such displays.An example of a two-display embodiment is one in which one display isconfigured as an internal display (viewable when the terminal is in anopened position) and a second display configured as an external display(viewable in both the open and closed positions).

FIG. 1 further shows output unit 150 having an audio output module 152which supports the audio output requirements of the mobile terminal 100.The audio output module is often implemented using one or more speakers,buzzers, other audio producing devices, and combinations thereof. Theaudio output module functions in various modes including call-receivingmode, call-placing mode, recording mode, voice recognition mode andbroadcast reception mode. During operation, the audio output module 152outputs audio relating to a particular function (e.g., call received,message received, and errors).

The output unit 150 is further shown having an alarm 153, which iscommonly used to signal or otherwise identify the occurrence of aparticular event associated with the mobile terminal. Typical eventsinclude call received, message received and user input received. Anexample of such output includes the providing of tactile sensations(e.g., vibration) to a user. For instance, the alarm 153 may beconfigured to vibrate responsive to the mobile terminal receiving a callor message. As another example, vibration is provided by alarm 153responsive to receiving user input at the mobile terminal, thusproviding a tactile feedback mechanism. It is understood that thevarious output provided by the components of output unit 150 may beseparately performed, or such output may be performed using anycombination of such components.

The memory 160 is generally used to store various types of data tosupport the processing, control, and storage requirements of the mobileterminal. Examples of such data include program instructions forapplications operating on the mobile terminal, contact data, phonebookdata, messages, pictures, video, etc. The memory 160 shown in FIG. 1 maybe implemented using any type (or combination) of suitable volatile andnon-volatile memory or storage devices including random access memory(RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasableprogrammable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory(ROM), magnetic memory, flash memory, magnetic or optical disk,card-type memory, or other similar memory or data storage device.

The controller 180 typically controls the overall operations of themobile terminal. For instance, the controller performs the control andprocessing associated with voice calls, data communications, videocalls, camera operations and recording operations. If desired, thecontroller may include a multimedia module 181 which provides multimediaplayback. The multimedia module may be configured as part of thecontroller 180, or this module may be implemented as a separatecomponent.

The power supply 190 provides power required by the various componentsfor the portable device. The provided power may be internal power,external power, or combinations thereof.

Various embodiments described herein may be implemented in acomputer-readable medium using, for example, computer software,hardware, or some combination thereof. For a hardware implementation,the embodiments described herein may be implemented within one or moreapplication specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signalprocessors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs),programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays(FPGAs), processors, controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors,other electronic units designed to perform the functions describedherein, or a selective combination thereof. In some cases, suchembodiments are implemented by controller 180.

For a software implementation, the embodiments described herein may beimplemented with separate software modules, such as procedures andfunctions, each of which perform one or more of the functions andoperations described herein. The software codes can be implemented witha software application written in any suitable programming language andmay be stored in memory (for example, memory 160), and executed by acontroller or processor (for example, controller 180).

Mobile terminal 100 may be implemented in a variety of differentconfigurations. Examples of such configurations include folder-type,slide-type, bar-type, rotational-type, swing-type and combinationsthereof. For clarity, further disclosure will primarily relate to aslide-type mobile terminal. However such teachings apply equally toother types of terminals.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a front side of a mobile terminalaccording to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 2, themobile terminal 100 is shown having a first body 200 configured toslideably cooperate with a second body 205. The user input unit(described in FIG. 1) is implemented using function keys 210 and keypad215. The function keys 210 are associated with first body 200, and thekeypad 215 is associated with second body 205. The keypad includesvarious keys (e.g., numbers, characters, and symbols) to enable a userto place a call, prepare a text or multimedia message, and otherwiseoperate the mobile terminal.

The first body 200 slides relative to second body 205 between open andclosed positions. In a closed position, the first body is positionedover the second body in such a manner that the keypad 215 issubstantially or completely obscured by the first body 200. In the openposition, user access to the keypad 215, as well as the display 151 andfunction keys 210, is possible. The function keys are convenient to auser for entering commands such as start, stop and scroll.

The mobile terminal 100 is operable in either a standby mode (e.g., ableto receive a call or message, receive and respond to network controlsignaling), or an active call mode. Typically, the mobile terminal 100functions in a standby mode when in the closed position, and an activemode when in the open position. This mode configuration may be changedas required or desired.

The first body 200 is shown formed from a first case 220 and a secondcase 225, and the second body 205 is shown formed from a first case 230and a second case 235. The first and second cases are usually formedfrom a suitably ridge material such as injection molded plastic, orformed using metallic material such as stainless steel (STS) andtitanium (Ti).

If desired, one or more intermediate cases may be provided between thefirst and second cases of one or both of the first and second bodies200, 205. The first and second bodies 200, 205 are typically sized toreceive electronic components necessary to support operation of themobile terminal 100.

The first body 200 is shown having a camera 121 and audio output unit152, which is configured as a speaker, positioned relative to thedisplay 151. If desired, the camera 121 may be constructed in such amanner that it can be selectively positioned (e.g., rotated, swiveled,etc.) relative to first body 200.

The function keys 210 are positioned adjacent to a lower side of thedisplay 151. The display 151 is shown implemented as an LCD or OLED.Recall that the display may also be configured as a touchscreen havingan underlying touchpad which generates signals responsive to usercontact (e.g., finger, stylus, etc.) with the touchscreen.

Second body 205 is shown having a microphone 122 positioned adjacent tokeypad 215, and side keys 245, which are one type of a user input unit,positioned along the side of second body 205. Preferably, the side keys245 may be configured as hot keys, such that the side keys areassociated with a particular function of the mobile terminal. Aninterface unit 170 is shown positioned adjacent to the side keys 245,and a power supply 190 in a form of a battery is located on a lowerportion of the second body 205.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 3shows the second body 205 having a camera 121, and an associated flash250 and mirror 255. The flash operates in conjunction with the camera121 of the second body. The mirror 255 is useful for assisting a user toposition camera 121 in a self-portrait mode. The camera 121 of thesecond body faces a direction which is opposite to a direction faced bycamera 121 of the first body 200 (FIG. 2). Each of the cameras 121 ofthe first and second bodies may have the same or different capabilities.

In an embodiment, the camera of the first body 200 operates with arelatively lower resolution than the camera of the second body 205. Suchan arrangement works well during a video conference, for example, inwhich reverse link bandwidth capabilities may be limited. The relativelyhigher resolution of the camera of the second body 205 (FIG. 3) isuseful for obtaining higher quality pictures for later use or forcommunicating to others.

The second body 205 also includes an audio output module 152 configuredas a speaker, and which is located on an upper side of the second body.If desired, the audio output modules of the first and second bodies 200,205, may cooperate to provide stereo output. Moreover, either or both ofthese audio output modules may be configured to operate as aspeakerphone.

A broadcast signal receiving antenna 260 is shown located at an upperend of the second body 205. Antenna 260 functions in cooperation withthe broadcast receiving module 111 (FIG. 1). If desired, the antenna 260may be fixed or configured to retract into the second body 205. The rearside of the first body 200 includes slide module 265, which slideablycouples with a corresponding slide module located on the front side ofthe second body 205.

It is understood that the illustrated arrangement of the variouscomponents of the first and second bodies 200, 205, may be modified asrequired or desired. In general, some or all of the components of onebody may alternatively be implemented on the other body. In addition,the location and relative positioning of such components are notcritical to many embodiments, and as such, the components may bepositioned at locations which differ from those shown by therepresentative figures.

The mobile terminal 100 of FIGS. 1-3 may be configured to operate withina communication system which transmits data via frames or packets,including both wireless and wireline communication systems, andsatellite-based communication systems. Such communication systemsutilize different air interfaces and/or physical layers.

Examples of such air interfaces utilized by the communication systemsinclude example, frequency division multiple access (FDMA), timedivision multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA),and universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), the long termevolution (LTE) of the UMTS, and the global system for mobilecommunications (GSM). By way of non-limiting example only, furtherdescription will relate to a CDMA communication system, but suchteachings apply equally to other system types.

FIG. 4 is a front diagram of a mobile terminal according to anotherembodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4, a mobile terminal according to another embodimentof the present invention includes a first user input unit. And, thefirst user input unit includes a scroll key 210 a, a left-directionalkey 201 b, and a right-directional key 210 c. In this case, theleft-directional key 210 b generates a key signal for a left-directionalshift of a cursor or a highlight for item selection. And, theright-directional key 210 c generates a key signal for aright-directional shift of the cursor or the highlight for itemselection.

In particular, in case that a key signal is generated by pressing thescroll key 210 a while a specific item is selected, a key signalrelevant to an entry into the specific item can be generated.

A plurality of menu items are displayed on a display 151 shown in thedrawing. So, it is able to shift the highlight for a specific menuselection from the displayed menu.

In this case, the scroll key 210 a generates a key signal for a shift inupper/lower direction, the left-directional key 210 b generates a keysignal for a shift in a left direction, and the right-directional key210 c generates a key signal for a shift in a right direction.

Hence, a position of the highlight for the menu selection can be shiftedby the above-explained key manipulations. In particular, if the scrollkey 210 a is pressed, the menu marked by the highlight can be entered.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for a screen displaying method of a mobile terminalaccording to one embodiment of the present invention, in which a processfor entering a selected menu item is shown.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 5, four menu items are displayed on the display151. The number of the displayed menu items can be variously changed.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 5, if one of the four menu items is selected,the selected menu item gets enlarged gradually.

Referring to (c) of FIG. 5, the controller 180 divides the enlarged menuitem into a plurality of areas. So, a plurality of sub-menu itemscorresponding to the enlarged menu item can be displayed on the dividedareas, respectively. In this case, the divided areas can be representedin a manner of flipping over in the course of the division. The meaningof ‘flipping over’ includes that the divided area is represented by3-dimensionally turning forward or backward on a screen.

Referring to (d) of FIG. 5, the selected menu item (higher item) andsub-items for the higher item) are displayed in the divided area. Inparticular, the item for a phonebook (CALLING) and sub-itemscorresponding to the phonebook (CALLING) are displayed on the display151.

In this case, it is able to shift apposition of a highlight through keymanipulations of the mobile terminal. This example is shown in FIG. 6.

Referring to (a) to (e) of FIG. 6, it is able to shift a position of ahighlight using a scroll key 210 a. For instance, a position of ahighlight light appearing on a sub-menu on a left upper end is shiftedin a manner that the scroll key 210 a is scrolled downward.

In particular, if the scroll key 210 a is scrolled down when thehighlight, as shown in (c) of FIG. 6, is located at a lower menu on aright lowest end, it is able to shift the highlight, as shown in (d) and(e) of FIG. 6, to the upper menu (‘phonebook (CALLING)’ in the drawing).In order for a user to recognize the entry to the upper menu, the imagemay shake as shown in (d) of FIG. 6, which shows a status that acorresponding image inclines backward at a prescribed angle.

Meanwhile, a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention is able to display a higher item and at least one lower itemcorresponding to the higher item on a first facet of a polyhedral pillaror spectrum.

A method of shifting an image by displaying an item on a prescribedfacet of a polyhedral pillar is explained as follows.

FIG. 7 is a screen displaying method in a mobile terminal according toone embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 7, an image shown in (a) of FIG. 7 represents a firstfacet of a polyhedral pillar.

A first higher item is displayed on an upper end of the first facet ofthe polyhedral pillar. A plurality of lower items corresponding to thefirst higher item are displayed below the first higher item. And, ahighlight is marked on the higher item located at the upper end.

Thus, while the highlight is marked at the higher item on the upper end,if a key signal for an image shift is inputted, the controller 180 turnsthe polyhedral pillar to display a second facet of the polyhedralpillar. In this case, a key input for an image shift can be carried outusing a left-directional key 210 b or a right-directional key 210 c. Inparticular, in a case where the display 151 is configured as a touchscreen, a user may apply a touch input on the touch screen instead ofusing the directional keys. For example, a user may apply a horizontaltouch-drag to the right on the touchscreen to obtain the same effect ofusing the right-directional key 210 c.

If the left-directional key 210 b is inputted, the controller 180controls the polyhedral pillar to be turned in a left direction. If theright-directional key 210 c is inputted, the controller 180 controls thepolyhedral pillar to be turned in a right direction. Alternatively, if ahorizontal touch-drag to the right is input on the touch screen, thecontroller 180 controls the polyhedral pillar to be turned in a rightdirection.

If the polyhedral pillar is turned in accordance with a key signal foran image shift, a rotation of the polyhedral pillar undergoes anintermediate status as shown in (b) of FIG. 7. Thus, the polyhedralpillar is turned in a virtual 3-dimensional space.

If the rotation further proceeds, a second facet of the polyhedral turnsto appear gradually. On the appearing second facet, a second higher itemand at least one lower items corresponding to the second higher item aredisplayed.

In this case, the lower item corresponding to the higher item can bedisplayed by flipping over, which is shown in (c) of FIG. 7 for example.By displaying the flipping lower item corresponding to the higher item,a user is able to visually recognize the approximate number of the loweritems.

Referring to (d) of FIG. 7, after completion of the rotation, the secondfacet of the polyhedral pillar is fully displayed. On the displayedsecond facet, the second higher item and the lower items correspondingto the second higher item are displayed.

meanwhile, a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention provides a method of displaying a screen using stackedpolyhedral pillars. This method is applicable to a calendarrepresentation.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for a screen displaying method of a mobile terminalaccording to one embodiment of the present invention, in which acalendar representing method is shown. In this case a calendar mayinclude a schedule-relevant calendar.

First of all, in case of receiving a key signal for aleft/right-directional shift while a first facet of a first polyhedralpillar, as shown in (a) of FIG. 8, among stacked polyhedral pillars isdisplayed, the controller 180 is able to display a second facet of thefirst polyhedral pillar by rotating the polyhedral pillar. In this case,the whole months of a year can be represented on facets of the firstpolyhedral pillar. Hence, the first polyhedral pillar may include a2-facet pillar.

The key signal for the left/right-directional shift can be generatedusing the second user input unit 215. For instance, the key signal forthe left/right-directional shift can be matched to a numeral key ‘4/6’of the second user input unit 215. For instance, the key signal for theleft-directional rotation is matched to the numeral key ‘4’, and the keysignal for the right-directional rotation is matched to the numeral key‘6’.

If the key signal for the left- or right-directional shift is inputted,the controller 180 controls the first polyhedral pillar to be rotated.An intermediate status of the rotation of the first polyhedral pillar isshown in (b) of FIG. 8.

As the rotation further proceeds, the second facet of the firstpolyhedral pillar gradually appears. On the appearing second facet, adifferent month in the same year of the calendar displayed on the firstfacet of the first polyhedral pillar is displayed.

In this case, the controller 180 is able to display a scheduled day tobe discriminated from the rest of days. For instance, the scheduled day,as shown in (c) of FIG. 8, can be displayed by flipping over.Alternatively, the scheduled day can be represented by repeating itsrotational motion.

Subsequently, the rotation further proceeds and is then completed. Ifso, the second facet of the first polyhedral pillar is fully displayed.In this case, a scheduled day can be represented to be discriminatedfrom the rest of days. For instance, the scheduled day is represented ascolored. Alternatively, the scheduled day, a shown in (d) of FIG. 8, isrepresented as underlined.

By displaying the scheduled day(s) to be discriminated from others, auser is able to visually confirm how many days are scheduled.

In case of receiving a key signal for an up/down shift while a firstfacet of a first polyhedral pillar among stacked polyhedral pillars isdisplayed, a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention is able to display a first facet of a second polyhedral pillarby shifting the stacked polyhedral pillars up and down. In this case, acalendar in a year different from that of the same month displayed onthe first facet of the first polyhedral pillar can be displayed on thefirst facet of the second polyhedral pillar. An example for shifting theabove image is shown in FIG. 9.

First of all, it is able to generate the key signal for the up/downshift using the second user input unit 215. For instance, the key signalfor the up/down shift can be matched to a numeral key ‘2/8’ of thesecond user input unit 215. In particular, the key signal for the upshift is matched to the numeral key ‘2’ and the key signal for the downshift can be matched to the numeral key ‘8’. In particular, in a casewhere the display 151 is configured as a touch screen, a user may applya touch input on the touch screen instead of using the second user inputunit 215. For example, a user may apply an up/down touch-drag on thetouchscreen to obtain the same effect of using the second user inputunit 215.

By the down shift, a year is incremented. By the up shift, a year isdecremented. It is understood that the key signal for the year incrementand the key signal for the year decrement can be switched to each other.

While the first facet of the first polyhedral pillar, as shown in (a) ofFIG. 9, is displayed, if the key signal for the up or down shift isinputted, the controller 180 controls the stacked polyhedral pillars upand down. An intermediate status of the down shift of the firstpolyhedral pillar is shown in (b) of FIG. 9.

As the down shift further proceeds, the first facet of the secondpolyhedral pillar gradually appears. On the appearing first facet of thesecond polyhedral pillar, a different year of the same month of thecalendar displayed on the first facet of the first polyhedral pillar isdisplayed. In this case, the controller 180 is able to display at leastone scheduled day to be discriminated from others. For instance, ascheduled day, as shown in (c) of FIG. 9, can be displayed in a mannerof flipping over. Alternatively, a scheduled day can be displayed in amanner of repeating its rotational motion.

As the down shift further proceeds, it is completed. If so, the firstfacet of the second polyhedral pillar is fully displayed. In this case,at least one scheduled day can be displayed to be discriminated fromothers. For instance, a scheduled day, as shown in (d) of FIG. 9, can bediscriminated by being colored or underlined.

By displaying a scheduled day to be discriminated from others, a user isable to visually and approximately confirm how many days of acorresponding month are scheduled.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is able toshift an image of a calendar representing a current month via specifickey signal input. In this case, the specific key signal can be matchedto a numeral key ‘5’ of the second user input unit 215.

In the mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, it is able to confirm whether a schedule is set or not in thecalendar shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. 9.

FIG. 10 shows a screen displaying method for executing a confirmation ofa presence or non-presence of a schedule setup.

Referring to FIG. 10, it is able to check a presence or non-presence ofa schedule on a highlighted day in a displayed calendar.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 10, if a schedule is set UP, it can beschematically displayed on a lower end of a screen.

If an ‘OK’ key is inputted while a scheduled day is highlighted, aschedule corresponding to the highlighted day, as shown in (b) of FIG.10, is enlarged and displayed.

In this case, the ‘OK’ key input can be generated by pressing a scrollkey 210 a. Through the enlarged and displayed schedule, details of theschedule can be checked.

In the above description for one embodiment of the present invention,the method of displaying the screen using the stacked polyhedral pillarsis explained. Alternatively, polyhedrons that can be stacked on eachother are applicable to the present invention.

A screen displaying method of a mobile terminal according to anotherembodiment of the present invention is explained as follows.

A method of displaying a menu in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention is explained with reference to FIG.11 as follows.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart for a method of displaying a menu in a mobileterminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 11, a user selects one of at least one or more menuitems in the mobile terminal [S210]. In this case, the menu item means acategory for a function/operation provided by the mobile terminal. And,the menu means a list constructed with at least one or more menu items.Moreover, the menu can become a single menu item as well.

For instance, in the menu item, there is ‘menu’ as a highest menu item.There are ‘phonebook’, ‘message’, ‘multimedia’, ‘screen setting’,‘internet access’, and the like as menu items belonging to the ‘menu’.As sub-menu items belonging to the ‘phonebook’, there are ‘phone numbersearch’, ‘phone number add’, ‘abbreviated number setting’, ‘call historyinquiry’, etc.

The mobile terminal displays an identifier of each of the at least oneor more menu items on a prescribed area of the screen. The user selectsone of the displayed at least one or more identifiers to select the menuitem corresponding to the selected identifier.

For instance, the mobile terminal displays each identifier ofpre-designated menu items, each identifier of menu items selected by auser, or each identifier of the predetermined number of menu items inorder of higher use frequency.

Each identifier of the at least one or more menu items can be displayedas a menu bar on the lower area of the screen.

In case of including a touchscreen, the mobile terminal can execute theselecting step S210 if one of the identifiers is touched by a pointer.Alternatively, if a key for selecting the menu item is inputted, themobile terminal can execute the selection step S210

If the menu item is selected, the mobile terminal displays a polyhedronrotating in a virtual 3-dimension space [S220].

In the displaying step S220, the mobile terminal is able to display aprocess that the polyhedron gradually becomes complete by rotating inthe virtual 3-dimensional space.

In the displaying step S220, while the polyhedron is rotating, themobile terminal displays each identifier of a plurality of menu itemsincluding the selected menu item on a plurality of facets constructingthe polyhedron, respectively or each identifier of at least one or moresub-menu items belonging to the selected menu item.

In this case, the identifier is manes for indicating a menu item andmeans a text or icon. And, the number of a plurality of facetsconstructing the polyhedron may depend on the number of a plurality ofthe menu items or the number of the at least one or more sub-menu items.

For instance, the mobile terminal is able to display a plurality of thefacets constructing the polyhedron in a manner that each identifier of aplurality of the menu items gradually changes into each identifier ofthe at least one or more sub-menu items. In doing so, the mobileterminal is able to display the identifier of the selected menu itemintactly on one of a plurality of the facets.

While the polyhedron is rotating, the mobile terminal is able to displayeach identifier of the at least one or more sub-menu items gradually oneach of a plurality of the facets constructing the polyhedron. In doingso, the mobile terminal is able to display the identifier of theselected menu item on one of a plurality of the facets constructing thepolyhedron.

In this case, a plurality of the menu items including the selected menuitem may mean menu items at the same level of the selected menu item.

Meanwhile, in case that the selected menu item is a highest menu item,there may not exist a menu item at the same level. The menu item at thesame level means menu items belonging to the same later among aplurality of menu items (or sub-menu items) belonging to one menu item.

The displaying step S220 will be explained in more detail with referenceto FIG. 12 later.

The mobile terminal decides whether the rotation of the polyhedron isterminated [S230].

As a result of the decision, if it is decided that the rotation of thepolyhedron is terminated, the mobile terminal develops the polyhedron todisplay. In this case, each identifier of the at least one or moresub-menu items belonging to the selected menu item is displayed on eachof a plurality of the facets constructing the polyhedron [S240].

In the displaying step S240, the mobile terminal is able to display theidentifier of the selected menu item on one of a plurality of thefacets.

In the mobile terminal, one of the at least one or more sub-menu itemsis selected using the displayed identifier [S250].

For instance, in case that the mobile terminal includes a touchscreen,if a specific identifier is touched by a pointer, the mobile terminal isable to select a sub-menu item corresponding to the touched specificidentifier.

In case that the mobile terminal includes a directional key, the mobileterminal is able to select a specific sub-menu item using thedirectional key. In case that numbers are assigned to the at least oneor more sub-menu items, respectively, if a specific one of the numbersis selected, the mobile terminal is able to select the sub-menu itemhaving the selected number assigned thereto.

The mobile terminal displays a status that the facets are folded to lieunderneath the facet, on which the identifier of the selected sub-menuitem is displayed, in a virtual 3-dimensional space [S260].

After completion of the displaying step S260, the mobile terminaldisplays the facet, on which the identifier of the selected sub-menuitem is displayed, on the screen only.

The mobile terminal displays a status that the folded facets areunfolded in the virtual 3-dimensional space [S270].

For instance, the mobile terminal is able to display a status that thefolded facets are sequentially unfolded in order of having folded aplurality of the facets or in reverse order thereof.

The mobile terminal displays each identifier of the at least one or moresub-menu items belonging to the selected sub-item menu on each of theunfolded facets [S280].

In this case, the displaying step S280 can be executed in the course ofthe former displaying S270 or after completion of the former displayingS270.

The mobile terminal is able to display the identifier of the selectedsub-menu item on one of the unfolded facets.

The steps S250 to S280 will be explained in more detail with referenceto the following drawings.

A method of displaying a menu in a terminal according to one embodimentof the present invention is explained with reference to FIG. 12 asfollows.

Referring to FIG. 12, first of all, the mobile terminal in a standbymode displays a plurality of menu items as a menu bar format on a lowerend area of a screen 300 [1].

In the following description, when ‘phonebook’ 310-1 is selected from aplurality of the menu items, a process for displaying a menu for threecases is explained as follows.

First of all, in a first case, the mobile terminal displays a polyhedronthat is rotating in a virtual 3-dimensional space. In particular, themobile terminal displays an identifier 320-1 of the ‘phonebook’ 310-1and identifiers of a plurality of the menu items at the same level ofthe ‘phonebook’ 310-1 on a plurality of facets constructing thepolyhedron, respectively [2].

For instance, an identifier 320-1 of a ‘phonebook’ 310-1, an identifier320-2 of ‘internet access’, and identifier 320-3 of ‘schedulemanagement’, an identifier 320-4 of ‘message’, an identifier 320-5 of‘screen setting’, and the like, as shown in the status [2], aredisplayed on a plurality of the facets, respectively.

The mobile terminal rotates the polyhedron to display a status that theidentifiers of a plurality of the menu items gradually turn intoidentifiers of a plurality of sub-menu items belonging to the‘phonebook’ 310-1, respectively [3]. In this case, the status [3]represents a process that the polyhedron displayed in the status [2]rotates to come into completing its shape gradually.

As soon as the rotation of the polyhedron is completed, the mobileterminal develops the polyhedron to display on the screen 300. And, themobile terminal displays the identifiers of the sub-menu items belongingto the ‘phonebook’ 310-1 on a plurality of the facets constructing thedeveloped polyhedron, respectively [4].

For instance, an identifier 330-2 of ‘phone number search’, anidentifier 330-3 of ‘abbreviated number setting’, an identifier 330-4 of‘phonebook add’, an identifier 330-5 of ‘call history inquiry’, and anidentifier 360-1 of ‘group call’, as shown in the status [4], aredisplayed as the identifiers of the sub-menu items belonging to the‘phonebook’ 310-1, respectively. And, the identifier 330-1 of the‘phonebook’ is displayed on one of a plurality of the facets.

Secondly, in a second case, the mobile terminal displays the polyhedronrotating in a virtual 3-dimensional space in a manner of displaying theidentifier 320-1 of the ‘phonebook’ 310-1 and identifiers of a pluralityof menu items at the same level of the ‘phonebook’ 310-1 on a pluralityof the facets constructing the polyhedron, respectively [5].

As soon as the rotation of the polyhedron is completed, the mobileterminal executes the operation of the status [4].

Thirdly, in a third case, the mobile terminal displays the polyhedronrotating in a virtual 3-dimensional space in a manner of displaying aplurality of the sub-menu items constructing the ‘phonebook’ 310-1 on aplurality of the facets constructing the polyhedron [6]. In this case,the identifier 330-1 of the ‘phonebook’ is displayed on one of aplurality of the facets.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal displays a process that the polyhedrondisplayed in the status [6] rotates to gradually coming into completingits shape [7]. In doing so, each of the identifiers respectivelydisplayed on a plurality of the facets can be displayed in a manner ofgetting darker gradually rather than the status [6].

As soon as the rotation of the polyhedron is completed, the mobileterminal executes the operation of the status [4].

A method of displaying a menu in a terminal according to anotherembodiment of the present invention is explained with reference to FIG.13 as follows.

Referring to FIG. 13, first of all, the mobile terminal displays adevelopment figure of a plurality of facets constructing a polyhedron ona screen 400 and displays identifiers of a plurality of menu items on aplurality of the facets, respectively [1].

For instance, an identifier 430-2 of ‘phonebook’, an identifier 430-3 of‘message’, an identifier 430-4 of ‘screen setting’, an identifier 430-5of ‘schedule management’, and identifier 430-6 of ‘internet access’ andthe like are displayed on a plurality of the facets, respectively. And,an identifier 430-1 of ‘menu’, which is a higher menu item constructedwith a plurality of the menu items, is displayed on one of a pluralityof the facets.

In case that the identifier 430-2 of the ‘phonebook’ is selected fromthe displayed identifiers of a plurality of the menu items, the mobileterminal displays a status, which shows that the rest of the facetsexcept the facet having the identifier 430-2 of the ‘phonebook’displayed thereon are sequentially folded to lie underneath the facethaving the identifier 430-2 of the ‘phonebook’ displayed thereon, in avirtual 3-dimensional space [2].

If the facet folded status [2] is completed, the mobile terminaldisplays the facet having the identifier 430-2 of the ‘phonebook’displayed thereon on the screen 400 only [3].

Subsequently, the mobile terminal displays a status that the foldedfacets lying underneath the facet having the identifier 430-2 of the‘phonebook’ displayed thereon are sequentially unfolded and alsodisplays identifiers of a plurality of sub-menu items belonging to the‘phonebook’ on the unfolded facets, respectively [4]. In this case, themobile terminal is able to display the identifier 430-2 of the‘phonebook’ intact on one of the unfolded facets.

As the facet unfolded status is completed in the status [4], the mobileterminal displays the identifiers of a plurality of the sub-menu itemsbelonging to the ‘phonebook’ on the unfolded facets, respectively [5].

A method of setting a background image in a mobile terminal according tothe present invention is explained with reference to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15as follows.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a process for setting a background image in amobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention,and FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a process for setting abackground image in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

Referring to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, a user touches a prescribed point of ascreen in a standby mode using a pointer [S510].

For instance, referring to (1) of FIG. 15, the user enables a prescribedpoint 610-1 of a screen 600 to be touched by a pointer 620.

As the prescribed point is touched, a mobile terminal displays at leastone image that can be set as a background image [S520].

In particular, the mobile terminal is able to display the at least oneimage as a thumbnail image. And, the image settable as the backgroundimage includes one of an image previously stored in the mobile terminal,an image captured by the mobile terminal, and an image provided by anexternal terminal or a server. Moreover, the image settable as thebackground image includes one of a still image, a moving image, ananimation image, a flash image, and the like.

In this case, in case of being touched over a predetermined duration ora prescribed count by the pointer, the mobile terminal is able toexecute the displaying step S520. In particular, only if there exists atouch action required for executing the displaying step S520, the mobileterminal is able to execute the displaying step S520.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal may execute the displaying step S520 incase of receiving a key (not shown in the drawing) for a backgroundimage setup in a standby mode.

For instance, the mobile terminal display a plurality of images, each ofwhich is settable as the background image, on the screen 600, as shownin (2) of FIG. 15. In this case, an image 630-1 corresponding to thepreset background image can be displayed as highlighted at a headposition in a list 630 constructed with a plurality of the images.

The mobile terminal receives a selection made by a user for at least oneof the displayed images [S530].

For instance, in case that the mobile terminal includes a touchscreen,the mobile terminal is able to select the image touched by the pointerfrom the displayed at least one or more images. And, the mobile terminalis able to select one of the images using a directional key provided tothe mobile terminal.

For instance, the user is able to select an image to set as a backgroundimage, as shown in (2) of FIG. 15, in a manner of selecting a specificimage 630-2 from a plurality of the displayed images.

Subsequently, the mobile terminal displays a status that the rest of theimages are folded to lie underneath the selected image in a virtual3-dimensional space [S540].

For instance, the rest of the images are sequentially folded to lieunderneath in prescribed order.

For instance, referring to (3) of FIG. 15, the mobile terminal displaysa status that the rest of the images are sequentially folded to lieunderneath the selected specific image 630-2 in the virtual3-dimensional space.

Subsequently, the mobile terminal decides whether the display operationof the image-folded status is completed [S550].

As a result of the decision, if deciding that the display operations iscompleted, the mobile terminal sets the background image to the selectedimage [S560].

For instance, referring to (4) of FIG. 15, in case that the image-foldedstatus is completed, the mobile terminal displays the selected image630-2 on the screen 600 only. Subsequently, referring to (5) of FIG. 15,the mobile terminal enlarges the selected image 630-2 into a backgroundimage size and then sets the background image to the enlarged image.

Accordingly, the present invention provides the following effects oradvantages.

First of all, the present invention displays a screen using a polyhedralpillar.

Secondly, the present invention rotates a polyhedral pillar in a virtual3-dimensional space to display various facets of the polyhedral pillar.

Thirdly, the present invention effectively displays a menu using animage in a virtual 3-dimensional space.

Fourthly, the present invention visually provides a user with an imageshifting process from a higher menu item to a lower menu item.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made in the present inventionwithout departing from the spirit or scope of the inventions.

Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modificationsand variations of this invention provided they come within the scope ofthe appended claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for controlling a mobile terminal, the method comprising: displaying, via a display of the mobile terminal, a first polyhedron having a plurality of menu items on respective facets of the first polyhedron; applying a visual effect on a specific one of the plurality of menu items so that the specific menu item is discriminated from the rest of the plurality of menu items, the specific menu item having a specific attribute set by a user; displaying, via the display of the mobile terminal, a first development figure having the plurality of menu items on respective facets of the first development figure, by developing the first polyhedron; receiving, via an input unit of the mobile terminal, a first input for selecting a menu item among the plurality of menu items; visually folding the first development figure into a second polyhedron having a three-dimensional appearance; and developing the second polyhedron into a second development figure having a two-dimensional appearance, wherein each of at least one sub-menu item of the selected menu item, and the selected menu item are simultaneously displayed on respective facets of the second development figure.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of folding the first development figure comprises displaying a process that the second polyhedron gradually becomes complete from the first development figure.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving a second input indicating a selection of a sub-menu item among the plurality of sub-menu items of the second development figure; and displaying only a facet corresponds to the selected sub-menu item.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of folding the first development figure comprises folding the first development figure so only the facet corresponding to the selected menu item is displayed.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of menu items and each sub-menu item is represented as a text or an icon.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of menu items comprises a category for a function or operation provided by the mobile terminal.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein a number of the facets of the second polyhedron is dependent on a number of the plurality of menu items or a number of the sub-menu items.
 8. A mobile terminal, comprising: a user input unit configured to input signals; a display; and a controller configured to: cause the display to display a first polyhedron having a plurality of menu items on respective facets of the first polyhedron; cause the display to apply a visual effect on a specific one of the plurality of menu items so that the specific menu item is discriminated from the rest of the plurality of menu items, the specific menu item having a specific attribute set by a user; cause the display to display a first development figure having the plurality of menu items on respective facets of the first development figure; receive a first input indicating a selection of a menu item among the displayed plurality of menu items via the user input unit; cause the display to display a process that the first development figure is visually folded into a second polyhedron having a three-dimensional appearance; and develop the second polyhedron into a second development figure having a two-dimensional appearance, wherein each of at least one sub-menu item of the selected menu item and the selected menu item are simultaneously displayed on respective facets of the second development figure.
 9. The mobile terminal of claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to cause the display to fold the first development figure by displaying a process that the second polyhedron gradually becomes complete from the first development figure.
 10. The mobile terminal of claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to: receive a second input indicating a selection of a sub-menu item among the plurality of sub-menu item of the second development figure via the user input unit; and cause the display to display only a facet corresponds to the selected sub-menu item.
 11. The mobile terminal of claim 10, wherein the controller is further configured to cause the display to display only the facet corresponds to the selected menu item by folding the first development figure.
 12. The mobile terminal of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of menu items and each sub-menu item is represented as a text or an icon.
 13. The mobile terminal of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of menu items comprises a category for a function or operation provided by the mobile terminal.
 14. The mobile terminal of claim 8, wherein a number of the plurality of facets of the second polyhedron is dependent on a number of the plurality of menu items or a number of the plurality of sub-menu items.
 15. The mobile terminal of claim 8, wherein the display comprises a touch screen. 